We'll today my oldest son and I: flushed the brake fluid, changed the plugs, and put in a new flame trap. I've got a couple of comments and questions that I wanted to ask:

First of all, in the process of doing this work I was all over the S90. I was amazed about how well it's built. I've never seen so much cast iron on any vehicle. It makes my solid old truck look like a flimsy death trap. Also, everything seems so easy to work on. For example, I took off the back brake pads to inspect them. I was pleased at how the caliper folds down with just one screw off. I could change the pads in 5 minutes flat.


I do have a couple of questions for you experienced guys. These are:


1.) Does your brake pedal seem kind of squishy? Mine does and flushing the brake fluid didn't help much. I'm thinking that maybe my master cylinder is breaking down??

2.) Is there a Compartment air filter on the S90s? I've gotten conflicting information. The parts store said that it did and sold me a filter for it. However, my manual doesn't make any mention of it.

3.) The plugs in my 98 Volvo (79K miles) had never been changed. One of them had threads that were so stretched that it was really hard to take off. So that's something to think of with these long life plugs. In other words, with time they might get stuck and then when you put on a lot of torque that would sheer off.

4.) My flame trap was dirty but only two of the pin holes were clogged. All the other pin holes were open. I think that a real good sign that the previous owner changed the oil on time--correct?

5.) Finally, following all your suggestions I bought Mobil 1 10W-30. Also, ordered auto-rx to help flush the engine.

6.) When I told the mechanic at the Volvo shop that I bought a S90 he said: "That's a great car. One of the best that Volvo made".

It seems like a really nice car! Thanks so much for all your help. I'm trying to plug into your group and help out when I can (i.e. return some of the kindness that you all have shown me).

Best Regards,
Stan